Stop Stressing 101

As I sit here patiently waiting for my vehicle to get an oil change, I was daydreaming of what the topic for today's blog would be. I was originally going to post another yummy recipe, but in everyone's best interest, I decided I would post about stress relievers, as it is midterm week or reading week for most students in Ontario. (If you don't have midterms or reading week this week, keep these tips and tricks in mind).

I tend to not be the stressing type. I know that if I study more than the usual "cram-the-night-before", I will usually be fine. Stressing makes the situation worse; as your main focus is usually on passing or failing.

I came across an article in Best Health Magazine, pertaining to stress relievers, so I thought I would share some of the ideas that were in that magazine, as well as some of my own personal tips.

1. By far my favourite thing when I stressed, is to listen to music. Whatever your preference, it will usually get you in the mood to sing, dance or just get your mind off of whatever you're stressing about. Even when I study, I put on Songza to my favourite Top 40 playlist, and keep it at a low level. I like a little background noise. (It's not for everyone though; it could be too distracting, so keep that in mind).

2. Control your breathing. Instead of having an anxiety attack where you have no breath, try some activities such as yoga, or meditation. I have tried the beginner yoga on Wii Fit, but have wanted to try it in an actual yoga setting. I know it's a great stress reliever, and working at the school gym, I can see all the women coming out more relaxed and focused.

3. Stop watching the clock. I am notorious for this, especially when I am studying. The more you look at the clock, the worse time will get, and you won't be focused anymore. The more you do not look at the clock, the more time (no pun intended) you will have to do other things. Worrying about how much time you've spent on something, defeats the purpose of what you're doing. (Time quote)

4. Tea is another one of my stress saviours. Loose leaf steeped tea is amazing for any situation. Try not adding any sugar or milk, the flavours from the loose leaves are natural, and are beneficially healthier for you rather than the additives.

5. Get organized. Meaning prioritize your time, and make a timeline of what needs to get done and when. I like to make a list of the most important things first, and go from there. If I make this list a head of time, I do not stress, and in the end I usually have enough extra time to do whatever I like.

6. Exercise. I find that if I am stressed or just being uptight, a good hard workout, or just long run on the treadmill gets me right back on track and focused. I tune myself out from the world with my iPod, and ignore everyone else. The gym is my time, and I am determined to feel better when I am done. Maybe not the next day though :)

7. Eat more snacks, and eat proper meals. When I stress, I tend to do the complete opposite. I don't feel, as hungry, and I definitely don't eat enough. It's not a healthy habit, but it's my way of coping with stress. If you eat more snacks in between your meals, it will maintain a steady metabolism, and you will not over eat at main meals times. DO NOT skip breakfast, as it is the most important meal of the day. If you do, your body will start to believe it will need to have more carbs and heavier foods later on in the day, causing you to eat more, and essentially gain more weight.

8. When in doubt, take a nap. When I am studying, or stressing, a nice 2-3 hour nap usually does the trick. Unless its at night, then I won't be able to sleep. If its around noon, take a couple hours to yourself. It you can't nap, read a book. Do something relaxing to take the stress off your back.

I hope all of these tips and tricks are useful for your everyday living. I know from personal experience, your stress levels will decrease tremendously if you try at least one of these.

Happy studying, happy reading week, and remember DO NOT STRESS, it's not healthy!

Until next time. 

-- -Kate